Old Joe Glows Gold

Posted on 25 Aug 2016

Jennifer and Grace

In line with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, on 1 September Old Joe will join more than 150 iconic global landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Niagara Falls by glowing gold to raise awareness of childhood cancer.

Alumna Dr Jennifer Kelly (MB ChBhons Medicine, 2006) approached the University to request Old Joe join the ‘Glow Gold’ campaign. She is a member of a support group for parents of children with cancer who are running the campaign this year. They hope that it will provide greater awareness of the early signs of childhood cancer, earlier diagnosis, an increase in funding and research, and ultimately a change in prognosis.

She says: “I became immersed in the world of childhood cancer suddenly in October 2014 when my four-year-old daughter, Grace became unwell. She devastatingly was diagnosed with a rare renal tumour and passed away just days later. She went from a happy school girl to passing away in less than three weeks. Grace left a legacy – a wish to help others.”

Recognising a need for funding, increased awareness and further research, Jennifer has since set up the Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust, which works to address these issues.

It means a lot to Jennifer that Old Joe is joining in, as she feels the University set her up for her career in medicine. She looks back at her time studying at University fondly and remembers taking photos on graduation day with Old Joe in the background.